National Star College

Overview

National Star College is a specialist residential and day college for students with high needs, judged as 'Good' overall with 'Outstanding' behaviour and attitudes. The report highlights a nurturing environment where students feel valued, though it identifies specific weaknesses in teaching quality for those with the most complex needs and in the provision for apprentices.

Strengths

• Students demonstrate 'highly respectful' behaviour and 'positive attitudes to their learning', contributing to a 'nurturing and safe environment'.
• Leaders provide 'four learning pathways' and an 'individual curriculum' to help students realise their potential and become 'active citizens'.
• Staff are 'well qualified' and use effective strategies, including 'word and symbol format' instructions, to ensure students can access learning.
• The college benefits from significant investment in resources, including a 'highly effective specialist therapy team' and extensive facilities like a farm and hydrotherapy pool.
• Apprentices develop leadership skills effectively, with many now 'leading team meetings' and mentoring peers.

Areas to improve

• Teachers on the ‘engaging with the world around you’ pathway must deliver a 'well-sequenced curriculum' and attend training to support students with profound and multiple learning disabilities.
• All teachers must set 'specific' targets to accurately monitor student progress, rather than using generic goals.
• Apprentices require better understanding of 'British values', career opportunities outside the college, and risks related to 'radicalisation and extremism'.

Safeguarding

The arrangements for safeguarding are 'effective', with comprehensive policies and appropriate staff training, though more work is needed to ensure students and apprentices understand the risks of radicalisation.